Wi-Fi for a couple of bull’s-eyes

And now, a _thattukada_ (roadside eatery) in Thodupuzha that can boast of facilities that even some five star hotels do not offer. Unlimited wireless internet can be availed free of cost by everyone who comes to eat here. Kunchaveedans _thattukada_, which operates near Mangattukavala bus stand in Thodupuzha, is the only thattukada in the district with free Wi-Fi internet facility. Kunchaveedans has been among the favorite eating places of the youth of Thodupuzha for many years now. A majority of those who land up here browse Facebook and Whatsapp on mobiles held in their hand while having their grub. After observing this habit, it struck Shameer Kunchaveedan—Kunchaveedans’ partner—that it would be a good idea to make the eatery entirely Wi-Fi. Even if it means a slight dent on the profit margin, the smile of contentment on the faces of the youth arriving there more than compensates for it, according to Shameer. The _thattukada_ operates from evening 6 o’ clock to night 11 o’ clock. A plan of Rs 498 which provides 15 GB internet data a month is being used. Shameer says that recharge will be done when data gets over and that internet will be on whatever be time you visit the shop. Shameer had started the _thattukada_ in Thodupuzha four years ago with the help of his father Azeez and younger brother Siraj. It first operated on Idukki Road. _Ellum kappa_ (seasoned tapioca), appam beef fry and meat-rice are the specials here. Dishes prepared by Shameer’s mother, Hafsa, are brought to the _thattukada_. Appam alone is made in the shop. Azeez makes the appams, with Siraj for assistance. When the cuisine’s taste earned name and fame, and the crowd increased in the shop, it was expanded and shifted to nearby Mangattukaval. It was after this move that youth started frequenting Kunchaveedans in large numbers, says Shameer. The thattukada with the Wi-Fi connection also has a very active Facebook page of its own. Regular visitors to the eatery share their opinions and suggestions here. Shameer announces any holiday for the shop also on the page. The Facebook page also displays details about the special dishes for each day. Thus has Kunchanveed thattukada of Mangattukavala gone fully digital.